You may be wondering why an educational consultant is writing about a topic such as the sound of God's voice. Well- sometimes I find myself wondering the same thing. The truth is- I've always wondered about my personal relationship with God, or the Universe, the conscious or unseeable being that controls this world. In my most recent book, I wrote about a time in my youth when a few "friends" wanted to invite me on a journey with them. I heard a "loud whisper" tell me- "don't go where they want to take you." The voice screamed- yet it was quiet. It was quiet because I was the only one that heard the voice. I obeyed the instructions and did not go where they wanted to take me. I can only wonder what would've happened had I not listened.
I mentioned in my book overcoming adversity and how to endure when you are up against any trouble. Recently, I was faced with a tough decision, and I must admit- all the faith I have could not overcome the fear that was hidden inside of me. That fear is what most black men keep hidden because we do not want to show the world our vulnerabilities. We must show strength- even when we know we need help. That's where I was. A friend called and asked me to meet him to autograph his copy of my book. Of course, I would never disappoint a supporter, so off I went to meet up with him. As we sat eating lunch and just discussing various topics- it must've been two hours before I realized- that it's been two hours! As I prepared to leave, my friend started talking about the personal decision I was facing, and I just sat frozen, listening to him. It was as if he knew exactly what I was facing, and with a smile, he said- God's got you! At this point, my head just fell into my hands as I leaned on the lunch table. I felt utterly helpless as my friend got up from the lunch table, put his arms around me, and stated again- God's got you! I slowly walked to my car while the restaurant patrons stared. I felt embarrassed because I couldn't control my emotions, because I genuinely heard God's voice.
God's voice doesn't have a specific sound or dialect. God's voice comes in any form- through any vessel God chooses. This day, God used a friend- but not necessarily a close friend. God used my ego to speak clearly to me. "I want you to sign my book" is a request I would never turn down. But, had he said, God wants me to talk to you- I probably would not have joined him.
How do you know the sound of God's voice?- remember that God is in you- in us all the time. God never stops listening and is always working for our best interests. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. (Proverbs 3:5-6).